New West Theatre Artistic Director Kelly Reay says the 2024/2025 theatre line up has a variety of great theatrical performances for local arts lovers.Artistic Director Kelly Reay
The music comedy revue “Totally 80s” runs Aug. 7-24 at the Yates Theatre. “It’s our tribute to the music and the fashion of the 1980s,” says Reay. “I think there’s a lot of young families and a lot of young professionals, it kind of hits the sweet spot for them.”
In October, New West presents a thriller (just in time for Halloween), notes Reay. Stephen King’s “Misery” runs Oct. 25 to Nov. 2 in the Sterndale Bennett Theatre. “It’s a stage adaptation of the classic story from the classic novel.”
In December, it’s the holiday inspired “Rock the Halls” from Dec. 11-28 in the Yates Theatre.
“Last winter, we did ‘Elf: The Musical.’ That show was soldout nearly at 100 per cent capacity, which was overwhelming and wonderful for us. It gave us the clue, audiences want holiday-themed performances. We took that cue and ran with it,” says Reay.
In the New Year, New West presents a musical tribute with “A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline” from Feb. 13-23.
“It’s an intimate concert portrayal of one of country music’s most well-known voices starring Erica Hunt, one of New West Theatre’s star performers as Patsy Cline,” adds Reay.
Live performance is such a communal art form, which is more visceral than television or cinema, notes Reay. “I think that’s what is unique about live theatre and what audiences embrace is that opportunity to come in and exchange energy with the performers right in front of you.”
“We like to think we have a little bit for everybody this season,” says Reay.
Next summer, New West presents “Hootenanny,” which is a free outdoor show for all ages with the production, “Scout and the Rarest Badge Ever.”
This summer don’t miss a “Tribute to Elvis Presley,” which is a two-night concert performance June 22-23 at the Yates Theatre.
“We’re looking to engage the audience with work they want to see and find opportunity to try out new things a little bit,” says Reay.
